I wouldn't typically describe myself as selfish, but the other day, I was scouring the internet for cheap (under $50) items I could buy that would make me feel and look expensive. Since half of that sentence is basically an oxymoron, you can imagine how difficult this task was. All that being said, what I discovered was so good that it pained me slightly to share my findings with you here, but I decided to do the right thing and write a little shopping story about them.
On my hunt, I was looking for fall 2021 finds that were rich in spirit but cheap in price. Below, you will see that none of the items featured ring in at more than $50. All of them are either quality basics or trendy must-haves, and of course, each pick had to look at least triple the price. Otherwise, it didn't make the cut. So enjoy my latest sartorial sweeties, and hopefully, they will bring you just as much joy and excitement as they brought me.
This dress with those boots is perfection.
This bodysuit is the only white T-shirt you need in your life—trust me.
These jeans look so expensive.
Do yourself a favor and get these in every color.
This top has me feeling things.
A blazer worth adding to your cart.
This is so sleek.
Just the pop of color your fall wardrobe needs.
Yes, this bag is $18.
This fall layering piece is extremely versatile.
Everyone's talking about miniskirts right now.
Zara's current assortment of clogs is unmatched.
I am a big believer in bold layering pieces.
A "buy now, wear forever" situation.
A fancy baseball hat? I'm intrigued.
We love a quilted cloud coat.
L.A.'s version of a sweater.
Meet my new WFH pants.
Throw a blazer on over this and go.
I usually hate flats, but these are kind of chic.
The most elevated crop top I've ever seen.
Yes, this also comes in black, and I think you need both.
Throw this on after a workout for an instantly elevated look.
I would pair this with relaxed tailored trousers and chunky loafers.
Bad hair day? At least make it look expensive.
Sometimes, Gen Z really does get it right.
I'm in love with button-down shirts.
A print impossible to resist.
No one will ever guess this bag cost $31.
Here's proof sweatpants really aren't your only option.
This color is my favorite right now.
I am still shocked at this price tag.
A cardigan and a top combined.
This would look incredible with chunky knee-high boots and a sleek shoulder bag.
You'll never want to take these off.
A hair bow for when I'm feeling sweet.
Chic slippers only.
A basic with a twist.
Next up, Bella Hadid's Under-$250 Sneakers Are Soon to Be the Next It Shoes
-
This Nordstrom Rack Sale Has So Many Cool-Girl Essentials—These 25 Finds Are the StandoutsAn extra 20% off? Yes, please.
-
The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer LongSomething for every personal style.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know AboutElite finds.
-
The 30 Items That Will Define Style in Summer 2025Gotta catch 'em all.
-
Linen Pants! Full Skirts! Long Shorts! Zara Has Every Single Chic Bottoms Trend—40 Picks That Are Worth Your AttentionGood luck picking just one.
-
27 Crochet Pieces From Zara, H&M, J.Crew, and More That Scream Cool GirlYou'll wear these on heavy rotation.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are a Few of My Favorite Things Right NowThe ultimate summer 2025 wish list.
